About
A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial to 1.1m tall, with upright to arching stems bearing deeply veined, alternate leaves. In late spring it produces conical plumes of tiny, starry white flowers at the stem tips; these are followed by pink-speckled berries that ripen to red.
About the genus
Maianthemum are rhizomatous perennials with erect or arching stems bearing alternate leaves and small star-shaped flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, followed by red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in light dappled or full shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide rhizomes in early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free